My name is Jade. When I was just four years old, I became a victim of sexual abuse at the hands of a registered sex offender. For over three decades, I have been battling the mental scars left by this horrific experience, seeking justice for the wrongs done to me.

The journey has been torturous and filled with numerous hurdles. Now, at 40 years old, I am faced with another challenge - paying for counselling to help me recover from my trauma. It feels unjust that survivors like myself are forced to pay in order to relive experiences we never asked for or consented to.

Child sex abuse is a pervasive issue worldwide. According to Darkness To Light (2014), approximately one in 10 children will be sexually abused before they turn 18. This means millions around the globe carry similar burdens as mine and face similar barriers in accessing necessary mental health support.

It's time we change this reality and ensure survivors receive free counselling services as part of their healing process. No survivor should bear financial burden on top of their emotional trauma.

Please sign this petition urging lawmakers and health authorities to provide free counselling services for survivors of child sex abuse - because no one should have to pay for their path towards recovery.